A recent study conducted by a research consortium led by Nestlé Research in Switzerland and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) has uncovered a significant finding related to muscle health and function. The study reveals that trigonelline, a natural molecule found in coffee, fenugreek, and the human body, can play a crucial role in improving muscle health and function, particularly in the context of aging.

The research, published in Nature Metabolism, sheds light on the potential benefits of trigonelline in addressing sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the gradual weakening of muscles due to cellular changes associated with aging. This condition often leads to the accelerated loss of muscle mass and strength.

The study’s findings are the result of an international collaboration involving the University of Southampton, University of Melbourne, University of Tehran, University of South Alabama, University of Toyama, and University of Copenhagen. The research builds upon previous collaborative studies that explored novel mechanisms of human sarcopenia.

One of the key discoveries of the study is the association of serum trigonelline levels with mitochondrial and NAD+ metabolism in skeletal muscle. This association was observed through various analyses, including serum trigonelline levels in healthy controls and individuals with sarcopenia, as well as the correlation of trigonelline levels with factors such as ALMI, grip strength, and gait speed.

Furthermore, the study demonstrated the impact of trigonelline on NAD+ levels, a critical coenzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism. The research revealed that increasing concentrations of trigonelline led to improved NAD+ levels in human skeletal muscle myotubes, both in ex vivo and in vivo settings. These findings suggest that trigonelline has the potential to positively influence muscle function through its impact on NAD+ levels.

The implications of this discovery are significant, as they offer new insights into potential strategies for addressing age-related muscle decline. By identifying the role of trigonelline in enhancing muscle health and function, the study paves the way for further research and potential therapeutic applications in the field of gerontology and geriatrics.